The Real Winners and Losers from NFL Week 12
Week 12 of the NFL season delivered thrilling games, jaw-dropping performances, and moments of heartbreak. As the playoff race tightens, every win feels monumental, and every loss can shift the trajectory of a team’s season. From standout players who lifted their teams to glory, to unfortunate mishaps that spelled disaster, here are the real winners and losers from this action-packed week.
Winners
1. Jalen Hurts and the Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles solidified their claim as the league’s best team with a gutsy overtime win against the Buffalo Bills. Jalen Hurts was sensational, proving once again why he’s an MVP frontrunner. Hurts accounted for five total touchdowns, including a game-winning 12-yard rushing score in overtime. Despite trailing for most of the game, the Eagles displayed resilience and composure, reminding the NFL that they’re built for high-stakes battles.
Why They’re Winners: The Eagles are now 10-1 and boast a remarkable ability to win close games, a crucial trait for postseason success.
2. Trevor Lawrence and the Jacksonville Jaguars
After weeks of inconsistent play, Trevor Lawrence led the Jaguars to a dominant 24-10 victory over the Houston Texans, strengthening their hold on the AFC South. Lawrence looked every bit the franchise quarterback, throwing for 364 yards and a touchdown. His precision and poise were complemented by a standout performance from wide receiver Calvin Ridley, who finished with over 100 receiving yards.
3. Pittsburgh Steelers’ Offense
For the first time in what feels like forever, the Steelers’ offense looked alive. After firing offensive coordinator Matt Canada earlier in the week, Pittsburgh racked up 400 yards of total offense in a 16-10 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. Running back Najee Harris and wideout George Pickens shone, while Kenny Pickett looked more comfortable and confident under center.
Why They’re Winners: The Steelers are 7-4 and suddenly have a revitalized offense to pair with their elite defense.
4. Patrick Mahomes’ Kansas City Chiefs Defense
While Mahomes and the offense had a quiet game, the Chiefs’ defense came up huge in their 31-17 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Chris Jones and the pass rush were relentless, and the secondary kept the Raiders’ passing attack in check. The defense’s dominance allowed Kansas City to recover from an early 14-point deficit and secure another critical win.
Why They’re Winners: The Chiefs’ ability to win games with defense adds a new dimension to their Super Bowl aspirations.
5. Kyler Murray’s Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals may not be playoff-bound, but Kyler Murray’s resurgence is a win for the franchise. Murray led Arizona to a 24-21 victory over the Los Angeles Rams, showcasing his trademark mobility and arm talent. His chemistry with rookie Michael Wilson and veteran Marquise Brown was on full display, giving Cardinals fans hope for the future.
Why They’re Winners: Murray’s return to form provides a silver lining in an otherwise rebuilding season.
Losers
1. Buffalo Bills
For the Bills, it’s the same story in a different week: another heartbreaking loss in a game they should have won. Despite a stellar performance from Josh Allen, who accounted for four total touchdowns, the Bills fell short in overtime against the Eagles. Poor game management, a missed field goal, and defensive lapses in the second half proved costly.
Why They’re Losers: At 6-6, the Bills are in danger of missing the playoffs, a shocking development for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
2. New England Patriots’ Offense
The Patriots’ offensive woes reached a new low in their 10-7 loss to the New York Giants. Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe combined for three interceptions, and the team failed to generate any consistent rhythm. Even the return of Ezekiel Elliott and a strong performance from the defense couldn’t salvage the game.
Why They’re Losers: At 2-9, the Patriots are officially in contention for the NFL’s worst record—a stunning fall for a once-dominant franchise.
3. Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers’ season went from bad to worse with a 20-13 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Herbert struggled against Baltimore’s suffocating defense, throwing two costly interceptions and failing to lead a late comeback. While injuries and defensive lapses have plagued the team, Herbert’s inability to rise in clutch moments has drawn criticism.
Why They’re Losers: At 4-7, the Chargers’ playoff hopes are fading fast, raising questions about the future of head coach Brandon Staley.
4. Carolina Panthers
The Panthers dropped to 1-10 after a 17-10 loss to the Tennessee Titans, solidifying their place as the league’s worst team. Rookie quarterback Bryce Young continues to struggle behind a porous offensive line, and the team’s lack of offensive playmakers is glaring. The loss ultimately cost head coach Frank Reich his job, as he was fired shortly after the game.
Why They’re Losers: The Panthers’ season has been a disaster, and questions remain about their ability to develop Bryce Young.
5. Las Vegas Raiders’ Hot Start
The Raiders jumped out to a 14-0 lead against the Chiefs but failed to maintain their momentum, losing 31-17. Aidan O’Connell showed flashes of potential but was outmatched by Kansas City’s defense in the second half. The loss highlights the Raiders’ inconsistency and inability to compete against top-tier teams.
Why They’re Losers: The Raiders are now 5-7, and their early-season optimism is fading with each loss.
Honorable Mentions
Winners:
Christian McCaffrey: The 49ers’ star running back added to his MVP case with another multi-touchdown game in their win over the Seahawks.
Jordan Love: The Packers quarterback looked sharp in their Thanksgiving Day win, giving Green Bay fans hope for his development.
Losers:
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A narrow loss to the Colts puts them further behind in the NFC South race.
Zach Wilson: The Jets’ quarterback carousel continues as Wilson’s struggles have all but ended his time as the starter.
Conclusion
NFL Week 12 highlighted the league’s parity, as some teams solidified their dominance while others saw their seasons unravel. The Eagles and Jaguars continue to impress, while the Bills and Chargers face mounting pressure as playoff hopes dim. With just a few weeks left in the regular season, every game carries heightened stakes, setting the stage for more drama in the race to the postseason.
